Yes, unpasteurized cheese is legal in North Carolina but strictly regulated under state and federal public health standards. The North Carolina Department of Agriculture & Consumer Services (NCDA&CS) enforces compliance with FDA Pasteurized Milk Ordinance (PMO) guidelines, while local health departments monitor retail sales. Recent 2026 draft amendments to the NC Food Code may tighten aged cheese (60+ days) exemptions, requiring additional pathogen testing for raw-milk cheeses.
Key Regulations for Unpasteurized Cheese in North Carolina
- Aging Requirement: Only unpasteurized cheeses aged ≥60 days are permitted for sale under NCDA&CS Rule 46 NCAC 02 .0202, aligning with FDA PMO standards. Shorter-aged cheeses face automatic prohibition unless processed under HACCP plans.
- Labeling Mandates: All raw-milk cheeses must display “Made from raw milk” in 12-point font per NC Gen. Stat. §106-266.15. Imported cheeses require NCDA&CS import permits and COA verification for raw-milk origin.
- Inspection Protocols: NCDA&CS Food & Drug Protection Division conducts biannual inspections of licensed dairy farms and cheese producers. Non-compliant facilities face immediate suspension under NCGS §106-266.20.